Evolving stoma appliances to improve patient outcomes and increase stoma acceptance

Adjusting to life with a stoma can be difficult physically and emotionally. Preoperative counselling, where possible in cases of elective surgery, is fundamental to preparing those facing stoma formation, and a lack of support can be detrimental and can increase the risk of stoma patients experiencing complications. The stoma care nurse specialist (SCN) uses a range of clinical skills and specialist knowledge to support a patient through their surgical pathway; this is important for helping patients gain the skills and confidence to care for their stoma and reduce the risk of stoma-related complications. Complications are common and can reduce patient wellbeing and quality of life. As well as patient education and SCN support, using the appropriate stoma care appliances is important in achieving positive outcomes and preventing complications. Furthermore, the correct appliance for an individual patient can help to improve their confidence and wellbeing, leading to better stoma acceptance by meeting their needs and allowing them to carry out everyday life without feeling obstructed by having a stoma pouch. This article discusses the Aura Plus stoma pouch range, and highlights the features designed to prevent common complications and improve patient outcomes and confidence. A case study demonstrates how Aura Plus led to positive outcomes for a patient who had been experiencing significant leakage and peristomal skin complications when using a multitude of different pouches. The change to Aura Plus resolved these complications and led to improved wellbeing and quality of life.